Public Libraries: Calgary Public Library Unveils a New Look, Eliminates Membership Fees, and Releases New Identity Video

From Today’s Announcement:

The Calgary Public Library’s new visual identity echoes that daring sentiment and honours the bold spirit of Annie Davidson and founding members of the Calgary Women’s Literary Club who, over a century ago, dared wonder if they could stir our city to action to build Calgary’s first public library.

The Library’s new look represents unlimited possibilities. It’s about wondering, seeking, discovering, and sharing – removing barriers and increasing access to information in all its forms. That’s why, along with the new look, Library memberships are now free – to all Calgarians.

The official drive to double Library memberships to 800,000 by the end of 2015 was also launched at today’s event in the Alexander Calhoun Library. With the recent announcement that all Calgary Public Library memberships are now free, Calgarians are being encouraged to start the new year right with free Library memberships and the opportunity to rediscover their new Calgary Public Library. (Calgarians can register for a membership online or on their personal mobile devices.)]

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In addition to eliminating membership fees, the Library has increased the number of e-books and continues to add free movie and music apps. New shelving and streamlined collections free up space for improved use and encourage browsing. Room rental fees are a thing of the past – ensuring individuals, groups, and community partners have spaces to gather, think, and plan.

A cornerstone for the future of the Calgary Public Library is the New Central Library. Providing approximately 240,000 sq. ft. of usable library space, the New Central Library will be a multi-faceted family destination and gathering place with a physical collection of approximately 600,000 books and specially designed space for programs and technology. Construction is underway in Calgary’s East Village with the opening slated for 2018.

Direct to New Identity Video (Also Embedded Below)

Read the Complete Announcement Including Comments by CPL Director, Bill Ptacek

Selected infoDOCKET Posts About the Calgary Public Library

Calgary Public Library Unveils Sneak Peek of New Central Library Design (September 5, 2014)

Calgary Public Library Steps Up to Help New Canadians + Welcome to the Library Video (March 22, 2014)

 Bill Ptacek, Calgary Public Library’s New Director, Profiled in Newspaper Article (February 14, 2014)

• Get to Know Calgary Public Library’s Free Early Literacy App “Grow a Reader”, Free for iPad and iPhone (March 27, 2013)